Al-Ahly legendary captain Hossam Ghaly to retire from football next month

Egypt’s Al-Ahly Club captain Hossam Ghaly has decided to officially retire from football. (Al Ahly's Official Website)

CAIRO: Egypt’s Al-Ahly Club captain Hossam Ghaly has decided to officially retire from the sport in May, the club’s football director has said.

Despite attempts to persuade him away from the decision, Ghaly is certain he wants to retire by the end of this season.

Al-Ahly football director Sayed Abdel-Hafiz told a radio station on Wednesday the board respects his decision and wishes him the best of luck.

The 36-year-old is one of the most gifted Egyptian midfielders of all time, known for his neat distribution of the ball and skilful moves.

Ghaly returned to Al-Ahly last January after ending his contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nasr Club.

He reportedly chose to retire after a major match set to take place in the UAE between Al-Ahly and another European team on May 11.